The U.S. Poultry & Egg Harold E. Ford Foundation (USPOULTRY Foundation), in collaboration with the Poultry Science Association (PSA), is pleased to announce the Ph.D. and Vet Student Career Fair, taking place during the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). The Career Fair will be held Tuesday, Jan. 27, from 8 – 11:30 a.m. in Room B-401 at the Georgia World Congress Center, in conjunction with the International Poultry Scientific Forum.

This special program is designed to support U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) member companies and allied suppliers, particularly involving, but not limited to, technology-driven companies such as those in genetics, health, pharmaceutical and nutrition. The fair’s primary audience includes early Ph.D. and veterinarian students.

USPOULTRY, through the USPOULTRY Foundation, also organizes a highly regarded College Student Career Program during IPPE. This program provides valuable opportunities for students to interview with member companies and exhibitors, offering summer internships and entry-level positions within the poultry production, processing and allied supplier sectors. These opportunities are tailored for undergraduate (B.S.) and master’s (M.S.) students seeking employment in the industry.

Additionally, PSA offers a dedicated career program for graduate students (M.S. and Ph.D.) focusing on academic and research-oriented opportunities, available through the PSA Hatchery, a graduate student organization. PSA further enhances opportunities for students through the Giesen Internship Program for aspiring graduate students, in partnership with industry collaborators, along with several endowed undergraduate scholarships and M.S. and Ph.D. fellowships funded by industry donors through grants and endowments.

“The Ph.D. and Vet Student Career Fair at IPPE 2026 continues to allow companies to connect with talented individuals who can contribute to the next generation of scientific leadership. This is a great opportunity to provide a convenient benefit for both students and industry companies seeking new talent,” said Mikell Fries, Claxton Poultry Farms and USPOULTRY Foundation chairman.

Each participating company will receive a table and two chairs. Companies are encouraged to bring literature, pop-up banners and/or other company information to give to prospective candidates. The deadline for companies to sign up is Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, and there is no cost to sign up. There is also no cost for students to participate.

For more information on the program and to sign up, go to https://www.ippexpo.org/education-programs/vet-student-career-fair/. For further information or inquiries, contact LaShundra Littles, llittles@uspoultry.org, or Barbara Jenkins, bjenkins@uspoultry.org.